Potential Energy diagrams

Front

What is Potential Energy?

Back

Potential Energy is the energy stored in an object due to its position or configuration. It can be gravitational, elastic, or chemical.

Front

What does ΔH represent in a reaction?

Back

ΔH represents the change in enthalpy, or heat content, of a system during a reaction.

Front

What is the difference between endothermic and exothermic reactions?

Back

Endothermic reactions absorb heat (ΔH is positive), while exothermic reactions release heat (ΔH is negative).

Front

What is Activation Energy?

Back

Activation Energy is the minimum energy required for a chemical reaction to occur.

Front

What does a negative ΔH indicate about a reaction?

Back

A negative ΔH indicates that the reaction is exothermic, meaning it releases heat.

Front

What does a positive ΔH indicate about a reaction?

Back

A positive ΔH indicates that the reaction is endothermic, meaning it absorbs heat.

Front

In a Potential Energy diagram, what does the peak represent?

Back

The peak represents the transition state of the reaction, where the activation energy is at its maximum.

Front

What is the significance of the area under the curve in a Potential Energy diagram?

Back

The area under the curve represents the total energy change (ΔH) of the reaction.

Front

How can you identify an exothermic reaction on a Potential Energy diagram?

Back

An exothermic reaction is identified by a downward slope from reactants to products, indicating a release of energy.

Front

How can you identify an endothermic reaction on a Potential Energy diagram?

Back

An endothermic reaction is identified by an upward slope from reactants to products, indicating an absorption of energy.